Physical

• Have varying amount of energy – may still require rest periods/free time, which in turn will allow for better focus.
• Want to challenge limits. Allow for experimentation with safe boundaries, with opportunities for free expression.
• Coordination is improving, but can vary and be greatly inconsistent – may have difficulty staying in a line formation, stopping and turning on command.
• Refinement of motor skills is beginning. Ability may come and go, as the nervous system attempts to catch up to growth cycles. Can present frustration to skaters who may realize that they are not doing as well as before, in which case you can take a step back to an easier obstacle or flat ground.
• Development of upper and lower body separation is beginning, which may allow for performance of simultaneous lateral movements. ( E.g., upper body rotation while sweeping back foot).
• Children can be more prone to injury because their bones are soft. There is a need to emphasize rules of safety. Keep them clear and simple.

Intellectual/Cognitive (Often instructors forget these points)

• Age of greatest dropout if they have a difficult experience.
• Games should be win-win.
• Can work well in pairs, so try to match up children for some activities.
• Developing a sense of independence, desire to develop sense of their own style.
• Keep instructions simple, using simple words/slang/FUN words.